Adonis: Herald of Spring

Adonis (福壽草) flowers are seen among the snow in a mountain called Gyagu-san, Yul-ri, Jeungpyeong-eup, Jeungpyeong-gun in South Korea's North Chungcheong Province as of Feb. 22, 2012.

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The yellow Adonis plants are locally called Boksucho (福壽草), which means the plant of luck and longevity in Chinese characters. They are also called Far East Amur adonis or simply Amur adonis.

They are known to be heralds of the spring, as bloom earliest in the spring. They are often called "Snow Flower" as they are seen in the snow.

Adonis is a genus of about 20-30 species of flowering plants of the family Ranunculaceae, native to Europe and Asia.

The species grow to 10-40 cm in height, with feathery, finely divided leaves. Their flowers are red, yellow or orange and have 5-30 petals.